How To Find Secret Camping Spots
We don’t want to give away all our secrets but here are some ways to search for hidden campsites, we’ll leave the rest up to you!
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At Drifters we love getting off the beaten track in the hope of discovering new things and experiencing something a bit different. Camping at holiday parks is always convenient and easy but if you’re up for driving a little bit further and doing a bit of research, you’ll often be rewarded with more space, less noise and unexpected experiences that can take your trip to the next level. Here are our top tips for finding secluded camping spots…
WIKICAMPS APP
This app was indispensable when we were living on the road and holds a database of campsites you can search on a map. You can filter search results by facilities (such as whether there are showers), distance from you and price per night. Photos and user reviews help to shortlist and you can save favourites to go back to. The app works offline so you can use it even in the middle of nowhere with no signal – just make sure you download the map before you head off. It costs to download but it is also the best resource for finding free campsites; stay for one night at a free spot and you’ve made your money back! wikicamps.com.au (search WikiCamps in the App Store, Google Play or Microsoft Store $7.99)
HIPCAMP AUSTRALIA
The best way to describe Hipcamp is that it’s like an Airbnb but for unique outdoor stays – including private land. Often beautiful farmland or acreages, you can stay for a fraction of the cost of holiday parks. The website is user-friendly and offers plenty of images of each property. There is an emphasis on eco-tourism and natural retreats so if you’re after somewhere peaceful this is the place to look. Be aware some of the properties are 4WD access only and require self-contained amenities so our campervans may not be suitable – always read the description carefully and look at user reviews to be sure. hipcamp.com
DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL PARKS
Run by the Queensland Government, this website lists campsites available in National Parks and offers some of the most beautiful spots around. A camping permit costs $6.85 per night and you must book before turning up as space can be limited. Print the permit and place it in your windscreen or pick up a permit tag on entry (normally next to the info board). Be aware some of the sites are 4WD only and you won’t be able to access them in our vans. Also, check amenities as many sites offer a long drop toilet but no showers – this is bush camping at its finest and sometimes it’s worth foregoing the shower to be surrounded by friendly kangaroos and freshwater creeks!
QLD website: npsr.qld.gov.au
NSW website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
CAMPS AUSTRALIA
For over 20 years, Camps Australia has printed a camping guidebook with extensive guides to camping spots all over Australia. They now have an app available for download to use on mobile and continue to be an amazing resource for free and cheap camping spots. campsaustraliawide.com
SHOWGROUNDS AND REST STOPS
Long roads and small towns often feature rest stops or showgrounds that are suitable for one-night stays. They often have very simple amenities but can be a great place to stay to break up your trip. We would sometimes arrive at night to a free spot and be woken to an amazing view the following morning in daylight!
Ready to experience off-grid camping?
Be aware that free camping is prohibited in undesignated areas across Australia and can land you hefty fines. A little bit of research before you head off on your trip is all that’s needed to be rewarded with a unique camping experience.